When you have a plumbing emergency, it’s often vital that you get swift attention from a licensed professional. Plumbing problems can have immediate, highly-stressful consequences, so it’s important to know which problems require emergency assistance so you can get the help you need.
Most emergency plumbing services should consider all of these problems to be an emergency situation:
Burst pipes
A burst pipe can fast release gallons of water into your home, leaving lasting damage in its wake. If you discover a burst pipe in your home, shut off the main water supply ASAP and call for an emergency plumber.
Remove any belongings and furniture from the affected room to prevent additional damage.
Burst pipes can happen at any time but are more likely in winter due to the risk of pipes freezing.
Leaking pipes
The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) estimates that 10% of American homes lose 90 gallons of water each day from leaky pipes. Almost all of them are probably not even aware this is happening.
Leaking pipes can waste money and cause lasting damage to your home. If left, a leaking pipe can cause water to spread rapidly, potentially coming into contact with power outlets, and causing a serious shock hazard.
How can you tell if you have a leaking pipe?
Look out for signs including:
- Stains in the ceiling
- Discolored paint or wallpaper
- Loose tiles and warped hardwood floors
- A musty smell in your rooms
It doesn’t matter how long the leak has been going for, if you suspect you have a leak, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Call an emergency plumber to assess the situation. You never know when a small leak might turn into an even bigger problem; it’s just simply not worth the risk.
Water heater problems
If you have no hot water at all, most emergency plumbing companies would deem that to be cause for an emergency call-out. Other problems can be stressful, but they don’t always warrant emergency action.
Take note however if you hear any bubbling or dripping coming from the main tank; this is a sign that you have a leak and calls for immediate attention.
A strange color or smell to your water suggests there’s a problem with your water supply, this is definitely cause for an emergency call-out.
Overflowing toilet
Not a nice situation for any homeowner to find themselves in; you want emergency assistance fast. Before you reach for the phone your first action should be to switch off your toilet’s water supply to stop the issue from getting worse. Behind your toilet, there should be a water supply valve on the wall. Turn the valve all the way counter-clockwise to switch the supply of water off.
When the supply of water to the toilet is switched off, call an emergency plumber such as Chard and Son. If you’re not sure how to turn off the water supply to your toilet then call a plumber for assistance. When they have diagnosed and addressed the problem the water can then be switched back on.
Clogged sewer line
A clog in your sewer line can be a serious problem and health concern that qualifies as a plumbing emergency. Wastewater can end up working its way back into your home and floor drains. Don’t use any of your plumbing fixtures, your toilet, faucets, bathtub, and appliances.
Signs that you have a sewer line clog include:
- Multiple clogs / sounds – especially at ground level. The lowest plumbing fixtures are usually the first to be affected.
- Toilet isn’t flushing properly
- You hear a gurgling sounds from your plumbing fixtures
- Water pools around your basement floor drains
- Your toilet, shower or tub back up when your washing machine drains
A block in your main sewer line can have serious consequences and should be addressed quickly. If you notice any of the above signs then call an emergency plumber immediately.
Sump pump failure
Sump pumps are relied on to remove water that has found its way into the basement or crawl space of your home. They are especially relied upon in flood-prone areas, or areas that receive heavy storms and rainfall – such as we receive here in Connecticut.
If the sump pump has a fault and a storm hits, your home could be at risk of water damage.
The first sign you have a sump pump failure would probably be found in the basement or crawlspace. Things you might notice can include:
- Wet spots on drywall
- Strange noises or vibration
- The sump pump runs constantly
- The sump pump cycles irregularly
Call for emergency assistance ASAP to prevent unnecessary additional damage.
Need help in Hartford County, CT? Call Chard and Son
When you need help in a plumbing emergency, don’t hesitate to call F.J. CHARD & SON. Our licensed and insured team is able to assist with all kinds of plumbing problems: 860-675-8086
Serving Burlington CT, Avon, Burlington, Bristol, Canton, Farmington, Harwinton, New Hartford, Plainville, Simsbury, Southington, Terryville/Plymouth, Unionville, West Hartford.
